Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) is a painful condition that affects the hip joint. It occurs when the ball-shaped head of the femur does not fit perfectly into the cup-like socket of the acetabulum, resulting in friction during movement. If left untreated, FAI can cause severe discomfort and lead to other hip conditions, such as osteoarthritis. In this blog post, we will discuss how you can stop it from progressing and the best ways to treat FAI.
Early Diagnosis and Treatment
The key to preventing FAI from worsening is early diagnosis and treatment. If you are experiencing hip pain or discomfort, it is important to see a healthcare professional such as a physiotherapist or chiropractor. They will perform a thorough physical examination and imaging tests like X-rays and MRIs, to diagnose the extent of your FAI. After diagnosing FAI, the healthcare professional would recommend a tailored treatment plan, comprising of exercise, medication, or in severe cases, surgery to stop FAI from progressing.
Stretching and Strengthening Exercises
Stretching and strengthening exercises can also help prevent FAI from progressing. Exercises that focus on strengthening the muscles that support your hip joint, such as the glutes, quads, and hip flexors, help to improve stability and reduce pressure on the hip joint. Stretching exercises can help to improve flexibility and reduce tightness in muscles that cross over the hip joint, like the hamstrings and hip flexors. Always make sure you speak to your healthcare provider first before starting any exercise program or making any significant changes to your current routine.
Activity Modification
Reduce unnecessary pressure on your hip joint by modifying activities that aggravate FAI. Running, jumping or other high-impact sports can exacerbate hip pain. Opting for low-impact activities like swimming, cycling, yoga, or pilates might be a better option. When exercising, it’s important to wear supportive shoes and to avoid uneven or challenging surfaces that can put strain on your joints.
Posture Improvement
Your posture can also impact your hip joint. If your posture is not correct, your hips may be subjected to unnecessary tension and strain. Additionally, standing for extended periods or sitting with poor posture can negatively impact your hip joint’s alignment, causing pain and discomfort. Improving posture may include corrective exercises, ergonomics, and lifestyle modifications. A chiropractor can help provide recommendations on improving your posture based on how your spine curves and your habits.
Rest and Supplementation
As important as physical activity is, it is equally important to allow your hip joint to rest and recover. Rest allows the joint to heal and recover from any damaged tissues or inflammation. Moreover, consider taking preventative supplements like Vitamin D, calcium, and even glucosamine to maintain bone strength and keep the joint functioning smoothly.
In conclusion, femoroacetabular impingement can be treated and prevented from advancing. It is essential to seek medical attention early on to prevent it from progressing. Combination of different FAI treatments options, like exercise, stretching, activity modification, posture improvements, rest, and supplementation, can assist in managing FAI. If you think you have FAI, schedule an appointment with us, and we can offer you a personalized treatment plan tailored to your condition. Don’t let FAI take over your life. Take the necessary steps to prevent it from progressing.
If you have any questions or would like to explore further, please book a free, no-charge online appointment with either myself, Dr. Tyler Baron, BASc, DC or another Kitchener chiropractor at CARESPACE. We are happy to listen and are here to help!
